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Homemade Sloppy Joe Sliders: A Tasty Treat from Little Sunny Kitchen

Sloppy Joes have long been a cherished comfort food, evoking memories of family dinners and casual gatherings. These deliciously messy sandwiches consist of seasoned ground meat in a rich, tangy sauce, served on soft buns. At Little Sunny Kitchen, we’ve taken this American classic and transformed it into an irresistible slider version, perfect for parties, picnics, or simply when you’re craving a hearty bite.

What Are Sloppy Joe Sliders?

Sloppy Joe sliders are mini sandwiches made with a flavour-packed filling of ground beef, pork, or turkey (or even a plant-based alternative) mixed with a variety of spices and a sweet-and-savoury sauce. These are served on smaller buns, making them easy to enjoy as a finger food or snack. Whether you’re hosting a game day get-together or looking for a fun weeknight dinner option, these sliders are sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef, pork, turkey, or a plant-based alternative
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (any colour you prefer)
• 200ml (¾ cup) tomato ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

For the Sliders:

• 12 small slider buns (or dinner rolls)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Pickles or coleslaw for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

2. Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Split the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a large baking dish. Generously spoon the sloppy joe mixture over each bun. Top with shredded cheese and, if desired, add pickles or coleslaw for an extra crunch.

Place the top halves of the buns on the assembled sliders. You can brush them with a little melted butter and sprinkle some garlic powder or sesame seeds on top for added flavour and texture.

3. Bake the Sliders

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes, or until the buns are lightly toasted and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, and don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand! These sliders are a bit messy but utterly delicious, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Customisation Tips

One of the great things about sloppy joe sliders is their versatility. Feel free to customise the meat, spice levels, and additional toppings to suit your taste. You could use shredded chicken for a lighter version or add different vegetables like carrots or corn for extra nutrition. For vegetarians or vegans, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Conclusion

Homemade sloppy joe sliders are an excellent choice for any occasion, bringing comfort and harmony to your table. With their delightful combination of flavours and ease of preparation, these sliders from Little Sunny Kitchen are bound to become a favourite in your household. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of these tasty treats, and enjoy a nostalgic culinary experience that will leave everyone asking for more!

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